What+are+the+disadvantages?


 *  What are the possible disadvantages from their use in the classroom?

Teachers will rely on it too much and if it fails to function an alternative will have to be used. Technical aspects - when it malfunctions, updating software, potential to be broken. Practicality - is it practical in the class.** surface can become damaged They are only benefit the students if the teacher knows how to use it effectively. IWBs aren't perfect. The software has limitations of course and you have to work within that scope. You definitely cannot have a powercut or data projector failure. When all the work is inaccessible it is a nightmare. One of the other limitations is that they use data projectors so you have the problem where you block the data projector light with your body when you stand in front of the board. Some kids find this challenging when they are writing and need to think about body positioning,  they are an expensive piece of equipment There is a large initial outlay of cost Projector bulbs will need to be replaced regularly, with bulbs costing up to $1000 Some boards have batteries in the pens which will need to be replaced regularly over the life of the board Lost pens can cost up to $100 to replace (//How to use an interactive whiteboard really effectively in your secondary classroom// Jenny Gage (2006) David Fulton Publishers LTD)

Surface can become damaged by standard use Training required for new staff / reliever teachers

"There is a general tendency to use the IWB as an extension for PowerPoint without utilizing the 'Interactive' side of the Whiteboards. A lack of effective training makes it difficult for teachers to make full use of the main features of the IWB" //Innovate with ICT: Enhancing Learning Across the Curriculum// Johannes Ahrenfelt and Neal Watkin (2008) Continuum International Publishing Group

 lack of continuity if not all classrooms or schools have them eg children go from having them in one classroom or school to not having them when they move etc - children may become used to this style of teaching and not be able to cope with change in teaching styles

the board could become a distraction in the classroom when it is not being used - children focus on it as soon as they arrive even if it is not being used

the board itself does not enhance teaching and learning it is the way it is used that enhances teaching and learning so teachers need to ensure that they use it as another tool to increase interactivity and use it in the most effective way there is a danger that the it will be used to replace rather than enhance existing teacher practices Preston & Mowbray (2008)